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Windsor Mourns Loss of Mill, Remains Optimistic for Project’s Future

Engulfed in a large structural fire Sunday, Aug. 6, the Windsor Mill project was severely damaged.

“This is a somber day for Windsor,” said Town of Windsor Mayor Kristie Melendez. “The Mill was a historic landmark in our community, and was in the process of being transformed into a downtown gem.”

The Windsor Mill is a remnant of the town’s agricultural roots. Constructed in 1899, the building was utilized for a variety of purposes, including a flour mill, feed mill, and retail space.

Damaged by a tornado in 2008, the building has remained vacant and in disrepair until purchased by Blue Ocean — an investment company created by Curt and Nancy Richardson, the owners of OtterBox — in fall 2016. Blue Ocean was in the midst of extensive renovations to the structure, with plans to open this fall as a mixed-use space home to a tavern, brewery, restaurant and offices.

In partnership with the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), the Town of Windsor committed to supporting the redevelopment effort with a two-part, $3.7 million economic incentive package — $1.8 million for public and façade improvements and $1.9 million in a sales tax refund. No public funds have been used to date.

“We were eagerly awaiting the redevelopment and opening of the Mill,” said Melendez. “We are saddened by this loss and the setback, but are hopeful the project can continue. The town will work in partnership with the DDA and Blue Ocean to bring the project to fruition.”

“We want to thank all of the first responders and partner agencies that assisted with the fire and those that will continue to work throughout the aftermath,” Melendez said. “Due to their support, we were able to contain the fire and minimize its impact on the surrounding area without injuries.”

In the coming days ATF will be on site to assist WSFR with determining the origin and cause of the structure fire. During the investigation, Windsor Police will work to secure the site 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

For questions regarding the incident or the investigation, please call WSFR at 970-686-2626.